Apprenticeships Explained

What is an Apprenticeship?

One of the options open to you after the age of 16 is to train through an Apprenticeship. This is a way of learning the skills necessary for various careers while earning at the same time. An Apprenticeship will often suit young people who do not want to go into full-time further or higher education, but still want to gain extra qualifications that are work related.

What type of Apprenticeship can I take?

There are more than 190 different occupations in which you can train through an Apprenticeship, from animal care to building trades, from administration to catering. The type of Apprenticeship you can follow will depend on what is available in your local area. Most Apprenticeships work towards nationally-recognised qualifications called NVQs and you will often also gain BTEC or City & Guilds qualifications.

Are there different levels of Apprenticeship?

Intermediate level Apprenticeships are usually completed in a year, but the time it takes will depend on your existing knowledge and skills, and the type of Apprenticeship you are doing.

Where will I learn?

This will depend on the organisation employing you. Sometimes you will spend four days with the employer and attend college for one day a week; sometimes you may do 'block release' where, for example, you may attend college for two or three week 'blocks'. Larger employers may have their own training centres and use their own training staff instead of colleges.

What are the entry requirements for an Apprenticeship?

For a level 2 apprenticeship you may, though not always, need some GCSE subjects at grades A – C.

For a level 3 programme (called an Advanced Apprenticeship) you will normally need five GCSEs, often including English, Science and Mathematics, or have already completed a level 2.

The entry qualifications are generally set by the employer.

How long does it take to complete an Apprenticeship?

Again, this will vary according to the employer, the type of occupation you are training for and the level of Apprenticeship, but Apprenticeships normally take between one and four years. The length of time taken to complete your training will also depend on your own skills and ability.

What will I earn?

There is no single rate of pay for an Apprentice. It will depend on your employer and your job role, but there is a minimum agreed rate of £2.50 per hour. Some employers pay more than the minimum and the average weekly pay is now about £170. An employer will often contribute to things like books or special clothing and equipment you need and you are also entitled to paid holidays like other employees. In most cases the rate of pay will increase as you become more skilled and experienced.

Where can I get some advice?

If you are still at school you should be able to arrange to see your National Careers adviser there. If you have already left school then you can see an adviser at your local Connexions office. They will be able to give you advice on choosing an Apprenticeship, how to apply and what might be available in your local area. Visit www. nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk and click on the local services tab to find your nearest centre or call 0800 100 900.

Where can I find more information?

Visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk. This site has lots of detailed information about the different types of Apprenticeship available and you can also search for vacancies. You can register your details on the site and complete an application form to apply online to as many as ten vacancies at a time.

Where can an Apprenticeship lead?

You may progress to a higher level Apprenticeship or continue into more highly skilled employment. After an advanced Apprenticeship, depending on the qualifications gained, it may be possible to move into higher education.

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